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Man Rushed To Hospital After Watercraft Accident On Delaware River

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – A man riding a personal watercraft on Friday was knocked unconscious after attempting to jump a wave on the Delaware River, according to authorities.

The accident was reported at about 2:30 p.m. near Timber Creek. Authorities say a crew member aboard the tugboat Candice reported to the Coast Guard that a person aboard a watercraft was trying to ride the tug’s wake but fell in the water.

Authorities say the victim, identified as 23-year-old Casey Shubert, was injured and became unconscious after reportedly hitting the handle bar on the watercraft. Shubert’s friend, Ilya Iofik, was there at the time of the accident and helped rescue him.

“I thought he just fell off. It happens all the time,” Iofik said. “He was unconscious facing down. The life vest was keeping him afloat, but someone had to get there to help him.”

A crew from Coast Guard Station Philadelphia rescued Shubert and he was taken to Hahnemann University Hospital. Authorities say Shubert regained consciousness and his injuries do not appear to be life threatening.

A crew member from the station said the situation may have been worse had Shubert not been wearing a life jacket.